You know that Iwork hard to bring the best quality, forage fed, synthetic hormone free,routine antibiotic free, humanely raised beef available directly toyour door. If Senate Bill 510 or the even more Draconian House Bill2749, passes without the Tester-Hagen Amendment, I would be out ofbusiness. This Amendment allows for smaller producers (like me) who sellless than $500,000.00 (I should be so blessed) to be exempt fromregulations that would put me out of business because there is noscalability to the program.

In a nutshell, I would have file for aFood purveyors permit and pay $500 to do so. I would have to buy arefrigerated truck, ($8000, used, I would use it 8 times a year) andhave my farm, and every piece of equipment, including my home kitchensubject to inspection at any time byfederal inspectors who could come without a warrant. Even though Inever bring your beef to my farm. Key Packing (our processor) would haveto file even more expensive permits and allow (and pay for) three timesthe inspectors already in place.

Ultimately, you might not beallowed to grow a backyard garden, sell or give the surplus away or takeit to a food bank or church supper. I encourage you to to read the billand amendment and contact your congressman with your thoughts.Encourage your Senators to support the Tester-Hagan Amendment.